Name: Jennifer Franklin

Age: 55

Website: https://jenfranklinforvb.com/

Why are you running for this office?

I really want to continue the work I’ve started. As the incumbent in this race, I am both honored and eager to seek re-election for another term. My initial candidacy was driven by a deep commitment to public service, a commitment that has been evident throughout my career. With 22 years of military service, over 25 years of involvement with the PTA supporting VBCPS teachers and staff, and more than 3.5 years of service on the school board, I have demonstrated a consistent dedication to our community.

During my current term, I have made significant progress. One of the recurring concerns I heard during my 2020 campaign was that the School Board appeared dysfunctional. I am proud to say that, during my tenure, the board has become much more functional and cohesive. There still remains much more I aspire to achieve, particularly in regards to teacher recruitment and retention. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to continue contributing to this exceptional division for the next four years.

As the sole candidate in District 1 committed to inclusive representation, I will ensure that every constituent’s voice is heard and will collaborate with colleagues across party lines to address issues effectively. This bipartisan approach is crucial for advancing important local initiatives and ensuring we achieve meaningful results for our community.

What is the top challenge facing Virginia Beach City Public Schools, and how would you address it?

The most pressing issue facing Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) at present is the challenge of attracting and retaining high-quality educators. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Building Strong Parent-Teacher Partnerships: We recognize that fostering robust relationships between parents and teachers is vital for creating a supportive and collaborative educational environment. Effective communication and engagement between families and educators contribute to a positive school climate, which in turn helps in retaining talented teachers by building a sense of community and shared purpose.
2. Support for Teacher Professional Development: Investing in the professional growth of our educators is essential for their ongoing success and job satisfaction. VBCPS is committed to providing comprehensive professional development opportunities that enhance teachers’ skills, keep them updated with the latest educational practices, and support their career advancement. This commitment not only helps improve instructional quality but also contributes to teachers’ long-term satisfaction and retention.
3. Competitive Compensation: Offering competitive salaries and benefits is crucial for attracting and retaining skilled educators. We continuously evaluate and adjust our compensation packages to ensure they are aligned with industry standards and reflect the value we place on our teachers’ contributions. By providing fair and competitive compensation, we aim to reward the hard work and dedication of our educators, thereby enhancing their motivation and commitment to the school system.

Through these strategic initiatives, VBCPS strives to create an environment where high-quality teachers are not only attracted to our schools but also remain engaged and motivated throughout their careers.

How do you feel about the politicization of public education?

The politicization of public education is deeply concerning, particularly when it impacts our children’s future. I have tried to model positive leadership and truly believe that leadership in our public schools should set a positive example for student behavior. Unfortunately, often times the conduct observed can be less exemplary than what we expect from our students. I am guided by the principle that significant progress occurs when we focus on results rather than who receives the credit. To ensure our students are well-prepared and competitive on both a national and global scale, it is essential to push above partisan disputes and concentrate on the critical work of education. Solutions are often found when everyone works together. I am hopeful that the constituents want a leader that will work with all of their colleagues and constituents, not just those that they agree with.

What is your view on banning certain books from school libraries?

The issue of banning certain books from school libraries is complex and has presented challenges for our division as well as for districts nationwide. It is crucial to maintain a selection of educational materials that are suitable for various age groups while recognizing that some books, despite being controversial, can offer valuable lessons to students who might relate to their content. When provided at age-appropriate levels, a diverse selection of books can inspire students to read, imagine, and explore possibilities beyond their immediate experiences.

In a public school system, collaboration with families is essential for maintaining a positive and productive relationship between the school and students. I believe that VBCPS excels in informing and partnering with families to ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.

Within the last year, the Kempsville High School baseball team was forced to forfeit the season due to racism allegations. How would you ensure there is not a racist culture within schools?

Addressing and eliminating racism within our schools is a complex challenge, largely because some aspects of that culture originate outside of our educational environment. While we can establish guidelines and structures within our schools, a successful outcome heavily relies on partnering with families. We maintain a strict zero-tolerance policy for racist behavior, and our DEI leadership team is committed to ongoing education and advocacy. Ultimately, fostering a strong collaboration with families is essential for advancing this crucial initiative and ensuring its success.

How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?

During my 3.5+ years of service on the School Board, I have consistently aimed to demonstrate my commitment to listening to everyone. I believe this openness is crucial in any public office, especially at the local level. Effective problem-solving requires hearing from diverse perspectives, not just those we already agree with. The most successful solutions emerge when we work collaboratively, and I am dedicated to valuing and considering the voices of all constituents in our community.